Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Limited (Hactl) has announced it is to install an intelligent cargo thermal detection system within Hactl’s SuperTerminal 1.

It marks the world’s first air cargo terminal to be equipped with such a system that will further enhance the safety and reliability of cargo inspection to address the increasing volume of hazardous shipments and mitigate potential fire risks.

Developed by Aerovision Technology Limited (ATL), the system combines advanced thermal imaging technology, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, data analytics, and artificial intelligence to monitor the temperature of different cargo materials in various environments in real-time and quickly identify any abnormal conditions, triggering alerts.

The companies state that the system will not only help prevent potential fire hazards but also reduce risks and losses faced by airlines, cargo handling companies, airports and passengers, enhancing the sustainable development of the aviation and logistics industries.

As part of the collaboration, ATL will provide comprehensive customised services based on the needs of Hactl, including system design, supply, installation, commissioning, training, and maintenance support.

Additionally, both companies will collaborate to explore new technologies and solutions to meet the future development and changing demands of the air cargo industry.

Hong Kong International Airport is one of the busiest cargo and passenger airports in the world, with air cargo volume consistently ranking among the top globally for years.

Angus Cheung, chief executive of ATL, said: “The collaboration between ATL and Hactl is exemplary to showcase the commitments from both companies to continue their investment for the future in research and development and adoption of locally invented technological products/solutions to further enhance the competitiveness of Hong Kong’s aviation industry.

“This collaboration is important in maintaining Hong Kong’s position as the world’s busiest air cargo airport and will also set the new standard for safe handling of air cargo in future.”

Wilson Kwong, Hactl’s chief executive, said: “We are committed to continuous development through the adoption of innovative technologies.

“This collaboration with ATL will introduce new cargo thermal detection technology to our terminal, further improving the reliability of cargo inspection, contributing to aviation safety and strengthening the operational resilience of our terminal. It also sets a new benchmark for the air cargo industry.”

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